Alternative London Workouts: #2: Bikram Yoga

Summer is looming, though those chilly, rainy days are always a threat. Rather than forging the usual English moan, why not warm up in a bikram yoga class?

What: Also known as 'fire yoga', this unique form of yoga is set in a room at 40°C. The exercise consists of 26 postures each repeated twice to enhance flexibility, strength and (somehow) relaxation. Founded by Bikram Choudhury in Calcutta, India with an aim to continue the healing methods of yoga guru and scientist Bishnu Ghosh, bikram yoga is now one of the fastest growing forms of yoga with over 600 studios worldwide.

When: The 90 minute classes are on offer from the wee hours of the morning all the way through to late evenings weekdays and weekends (class tables are posted on the web-sites). Evening classes in particular fill up, so get there early.

The Rundown: You might say yoga is not your thing; but you probably haven't tried it in a sauna-like setting. Sounds downright scary, but on the contrary, the sweltering temperature allows for increased stretching, body and mind focus, and (so they say) toxin release. This form of yoga gives a cardiovascular workout, with each posture repeated to give wooden bodies another chance to limber up.

We tried it, and can verify all that 'restored energy' woo is no joke. The initial heat is challenging, but the warm-up and focus on breath allows the body to adjust and, before you know it, you are down on the floor attempting to glue your torso against your legs. We left completely drenched, feeling muscles we had never felt before and, strangely enough, rejuvenated - ready to take on the day.

So fear not - the exercise is not only a safe haven from miserable weather, but also an exhalation of the last night's mayhem. Breathe in, breathe out and prepare to rid your body of all guilt!

Is This Right For You: The 'I can't touch my toes'; excuse won't do, as classes are open to all levels, from the painfully inflexible to the insanely pliable. And that goes for both men and women - attendance is divided almost evenly along gender lines.The focus is on body, mind and spirit, so whether you're looking for some chill-out time or the ultimate total body work-out, bikram has it all.